Lorne, a coastal hamlet situated on the Great Ocean Road tour, has become a popular spot for tourists. Numerous visitors stop in Lorne for a day excursion or an overnight vacation. Yet, a growing number opt to prolong their stay to delve into all the attractions the vicinity offers.
Lorne presents picturesque vistas, breathtaking natural terrains, an artistic centre, and a vibrant sense of community. For many years, it has been a sought-after locale for family vacations and weekend retreats from Victoria. From surf to cascades, vantage points to savoury dishes, there’s an abundance of remarkable sights to behold, things to do in Lorne to partake in, and experiences to relish in this laid-back coastal town.
Witness the picturesque panorama from Teddy's Lookout
Navigate along George Street to arrive at Teddy’s Lookout, which presents breathtaking views of the Great Ocean Road. The lookout features two platforms for observation and ample room to unwind and enjoy the landscape. Investigate both tiers to discover the perspective that appeals to you the most.
If you seek a favourable moment for photography, this is an ideal occasion to use your phone or camera.
Go chase waterfalls
Lorne provides an assortment of waterfalls and trekking paths for enthusiasts who appreciate the melody of cascades set against the serene backdrop of nature. The Rainforest Trail guides you to the magnificent Phantom Falls, while the Great Otway National Park is home to the striking Erskine Waterfall, visible from both its summit and base of its 30m descent.
If intrigued, consider embarking on a trip through splendid wilderness to arrive at Cumberland Falls (and include Sheoak Falls & Kalimna Falls in your itinerary of cascades to explore).
One can go surfing at Lorne Beach
Lorne Beach, also called Main Beach, is a preferred option for both local inhabitants and travellers due to its stunning shoreline and chances for leisure or surfing. Extending two kilometres alongside the Great Ocean Road, this beautiful beach provides abundant flawless sand for families or individuals with pets to appreciate.
The swells at Lorne Beach are suitable for surfers of all proficiency levels, whether novice or seasoned. You can bring your equipment or hire gear from adjacent rental locations and enjoy your water activities. If you wish to acquire skills, surfing tutorials are accessible at local beach clubs. In peak season, the surf lifesaving club ensures your safety as you relish the Southern Ocean.
You can enjoy a picnic at Louttit Bay
Within Lorne, numerous attractive locations around Louttit Bay are ideal for picnics. Options include the Yasin Hill picnic site close to the pier, Teddy’s Lookout with a view of the Bay or several picnic spots along the waterfront.
Experience a wine tasting at St. Anne's Winery
The Great Ocean Road is emerging as a prominent wine-producing area in Victoria. The wineries are positioned inland and within the Otway Ranges. St. Anne’s Winery’s tasting room is conveniently located on Mountjoy Parade in Lorne, providing a vineyard-to-table experience. Guests can savour award-winning vintages and captivating vistas of Lorne Beach. It’s a beautiful chance for lovers of wine and gastronomy.
You can go fishing on Lorne Pier
The Lorne Pier extends a peek into the historical background of the coastal village while simultaneously offering contemporary pleasures. Visitors can stroll along the pier to acquaint themselves with Lorne’s beginnings and might listen to tales from resident anglers, depending on their readiness to divulge.
The initial Lorne Pier was constructed in 1879. Its primary function was to facilitate the offloading of provisions for the community. Gradually, it evolved into a favoured spot for angling, attributed to the thriving local fishing sector. Presently, community members and tourists partake in recreational fishing side by side. Optimal periods for catching fish are during the dawn or dusk. Regular catches like salmon and snapper are prevalent, in addition to rarer entities such as squid or gummy sharks.
Discover the Great Otway National Park
The pursuit of waterfalls is a well-liked outdoor activity in the Great Otway National Park, complemented by other noteworthy sites to explore. Since its inception in 2005, the park has gained popularity among trekkers and lovers of nature, presenting a charming encounter with the Australian wilderness.
Furthermore, the pathways within the park are appropriate for equestrian activities or cycling. For individuals seeking a holistic experience, camping spots are accessible for overnight accommodations, granting you generous moments amidst nature.
Experience a seaside oasis at Lorne Sea Baths
Lorne Sea Baths is a coastal establishment that provides wellness and leisure opportunities for guests travelling the Great Ocean Road. Besides a primary swimming pool and fitness centre, there are plenty of options, such as hydrotherapy, salt therapy, yoga and massage treatments. Given its array of facilities, it is a favoured destination for weary and overburdened visitors seeking a few hours of repose in Lorne.
Dine at Mountjoy Parade's eateries
Mountjoy Parade in Lorne is a well-frequented spot for residents and tourists alike. It is brimming with stores, dining establishments with fantastic food and coffee houses, which present stunning views of the shoreline as you savour the local delicacies of Lorne.
Lorne Visitor Info Centre and Great Ocean Road Heritage Centre
The Lorne Visitor Information Centre offers extensive details about the municipality, encompassing upcoming events and festivals. Moreover, it hosts a constant display by the Great Ocean Road Historical Society, delving into the road’s past and the process of its creation.
Behold the majestic Memorial Arch
The Great Ocean Road Memorial Arch is just a 15-minute journey along the Great Ocean Road in the direction of Aireys Inlet and Anglesea. It stands as an important landmark along the 243km route, having been erected as a tribute to commemorate the soldiers who bravely served and laid down their lives in World War I. It also bears the recognition of being the most significant war memorial globally.
The road was built between 1919 and 1932 by approximately 3,000 soldiers returning from World War I. Regrettably, several labourers perished during its creation owing to difficult circumstances.
The narrative of the Great Ocean Road tour is showcased on panels across the location, accompanied by a statue depicting two repatriated soldiers engaged in road construction created to mark the 75th anniversary. It is advisable to bypass this locale in the late morning, as it can become congested with tour buses from Melbourne, particularly during school vacation periods.
Visit Gentle Annie Berry Gardens
The Gentle Annie Berry Farm is situated in the Pennyroyal Valley, close to Lorne. This is a pick-your-own berry establishment where children can gather fresh fruit in their baskets. Additionally, there is a cafe designed in a farmhouse style, which serves treats inspired by berries and regional cheeses.
Experience adventure and fun at Live Wire Park
Live Wire Park is a recreational park immersed in nature, providing an exhilarating experience. It fuses attractions with outdoor pursuits via an array of obstacle challenges. Upon your entry, the personnel will assist you in selecting a course. Choices span from simple to more demanding courses designed to assess your skill. Each route comprises diverse challenges, such as climbing among the trees, an ascending rock wall, a free fall, and a speedy zip line as the concluding activity.
Guests spanning all age groups can devote several hours to challenging their abilities and having fun.
Explore rockpools and be amazed
At the terminus of Lorne Main Beach, numerous rock pools exist where kids can have fun activities, investigate and look for marine life. It is crucial to advise your children to don appropriate footwear to avoid harm and to replace anything they collect after a brief examination. Regarding crabs or other beings, they have selected that particular location as their dwelling, so it’s unjust to displace them inadvertently.
Go to Lorne Sea Baths for a beautiful beach getaway
Lorne Sea Baths serves as a superb location for unwinding and a venue that keeps children engaged with trampolines, bumper boats, and mini-golf, ensuring hours of entertainment.
Welcome to the skate park experience
Discover the enchantment of QDOS ARTS
QDOS Arts encompasses diverse curated artistic venues, such as an exhibition space, eatery, and sculpture garden. The QDOS Fine Art Gallery hosts ten individual exhibitions annually. It is a serene spot above Lorne on Allenvale Road and a pivotal epicentre for Lorne’s vibrant arts and culture scene.